Education Internship

Facility

Nashville Zoo

Closing Date

[jobclosingdate]

Description

NASHVILLE ZOO PAID INTERNSHIP PROGRAM EDUCATION INTERNSHIP | SUMMER 2024

Do you want to inspire a passion to conserve the natural world? As an Education Intern at Nashville Zoo you will have the opportunity to gain experience in presenting thematic interpretive programs, leading education programs and developing your knowledge on a variety of topics including conservation, wildlife biology, botany, history and park management.

Applicants must be college aged or a recent college graduate with interest in the natural, physical or cultural sciences, communication, education, natural science interpretation or recreation and resources management. As part of your internship, you will receive training in methods that were developed as part of Denver Zoo’s ROADMAP program as well as techniques taught as part of the National Association for Interpretation’s (NAI) Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) Course. Education Internships will be on a full-time basis with intern working 30 to 40 hours per week.

JOB TITLE: Education Intern

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES-This supervised education position interacts with animals, guests, volunteers, and other Zoo staff. Upon completion of training, the placement consists of:

Assisting in development, facilitation and evaluation of education programs and interpretive experiences for a wide range of audiences on grounds, off grounds and virtually
Working to create programs aligned with Nashville Zoo’s Program Content Standards, Next Generation Science Standards and Common Core Standards in Science, Math, Reading and Language Arts
Developing program evaluations that assesses participant learning as well as informs program development Learning to make positive contributions to enhance the guest experience at Nashville Zoo

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES- Applicants will be assessed according to their knowledge, skills and abilities in the following areas:

Passion and interest in exploring a zoo or conservation related field
Knowledge of biology, zoology and conservation issues
Strong public speaking skills
Ability to work with all age groups
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Ability to follow written and oral directions
Guest-service oriented and enthusiastic about providing guests an enriching experience APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS College aged or recent college graduate
Willingness to study and learn curriculum provided by Zoo
Submit to a criminal background check and drug screening
Submit proof of a negative TB Test
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
Requires frequent moving about for long distances and over uneven terrain
Will be expected to wear the approved uniform and observe the same personal appearance standards required of all Zoo staff
Must be able to work a set schedule which will include flexible hours, evenings, holidays, and/or weekends
Frequent exposure to the outside elements and summer heat can be expected.

INTERN REQUIREMENTS:

Present and on time for all assigned shifts
Active engagement in all aspects of assigned duties
Attendance at all required training sessions and lectures
Attendance at all meetings with assigned Intern Coordinator, Volunteer Manager and other mentors
Completion of all assignments including two projects for each 12-week term
Maintain a written journal throughout internship term

BENEFITS:

Hourly rate of $12.50 per hour for up to 40 hours per week
$700 living stipend for each 12-week term
Housing provided if outside of a 40-mile radius of Nashville Zoo
Receive training on current best practices for zoo interpretation and program development
Receive first-hand experience in an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited institution
Enhance personal creativity and portfolio

APPLICATION PROCESS – Interested candidates should complete the application HERE and attach the following documents:

Resume
Cover Letter
(2) Letters of Recommendation
Additionally, we ask you to complete this anonymous survey.

Education and Pre-requisites

Not specified.

Compensation and benefits